Russell Wilson Named Starter for Steelers’ New Era
The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a significant announcement for the upcoming NFL season: Russell Wilson will be stepping in as their starting quarterback. As Wilson enters his 13th NFL season, the Steelers appear to be pinning their hopes on his veteran experience and leadership to navigate what promises to be an unpredictable year.
This transition marks a new chapter for Wilson, who has been sacked more frequently than any quarterback in recent memory. With an average of 43.9 sacks per season, he's racked up a staggering 527 sacks over his career. This figure places him close to the top of the all-time list, with only Tom Brady, who holds the record at 565, and Fran Tarkenton's unofficial record of 570 sacks standing in his way. Projections indicate that by the end of the 2024 season, Wilson could reach approximately 570.9 sacks, edging past Tarkenton’s record.
While the sacks may suggest a propensity for being brought down, they also highlight Wilson's durability and resilience. Reflecting on his career, Wilson has said, "I never had it to keep me going. I've never been -- I don't know why -- I've just never been worried about what other people think." This mindset underpins his approach to the game, focusing more on his faith and internal motivation than external opinions. "I think ultimately I focus on, as I mentioned to you guys -- obviously my faith means everything to me. God chose me for this, and He chose me to play this game," Wilson explains. "I'm one of 32 men in the world that get to do what I do, get to play this game every day."
Wilson’s track record against NFL teams is equally remarkable. He has suffered defeats against 29 different NFL teams, a number that could rise to 31 if he encounters losses against both the Cleveland Browns and the Philadelphia Eagles this season. The Steelers are set to face the Browns twice, in Week 12 and Week 14, and the Eagles in Week 15. This potential statistic places Wilson among an elite group of quarterbacks who have lost to 30 different teams, a feat mirrored by active quarterback Derek Carr and backup Joe Flacco.
Carr’s unique statistic shows losses to every NFL team except the Raiders and the Panthers, and he has opportunities to complete the set as the Saints face the Raiders in Week 1 and the Panthers in Week 9. Flacco, currently with the Colts, has an unblemished record only against the Lions, who they will face in Week 12.
For the Steelers, starting with Wilson under center isn't just about his personal records but about finding stability and success. The team will commence their season in Week 1 against the Falcons. If Wilson falters, the franchise has Justin Fields waiting in the wings. Fields, who’s been eyed as a potential starting quarterback, could provide the spark the Steelers need should Wilson struggle to find his form.
While Wilson's arrival in Pittsburgh signals a fresh start, the magnitude of his career — filled with both triumphs and tribulations — sets a compelling narrative for the Steelers’ season. His experience and ability to overcome adversity will undoubtedly be scrutinized as he takes on this new challenge.
The spotlight will be firmly on Wilson as he leads the Steelers, trying to reignite the fire that made him one of the prominent quarterbacks in the NFL. With an eye on possibly breaking significant records and pushing the team into playoff contention, this season promises to be a testament to Wilson's enduring tenacity and skill.